Don't miss this unforgettable evening featuring a performance by Maryland's own entertainment icon André De Shields, along with some of our region's brightest stars. From originating the title role in the revolutionary original Broadway production of The Wiz to his Tony-winning performance at the age of 73 in Hadestown, André De Shields has made a profound impact on the American theatre. Join us as we honor Mr. De Shields' legendary career.
Event Details
8:00 PM – Performance
9:30 PM – Dessert Reception
Tickets: $80 - $160
This special one-night-only performance with André De Shields is the highlight of our annual Gala fundraiser. Your ticket purchase directly supports our vital artistic and community programs, making your ticket a meaningful, tax-deductible contribution.
If you have any additional questions or would like to be placed on the waitlist for the sold-out Gala Dinner before the performance, please contact the Advancement Team at advancement@olneytheatre.org.
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André De Shields
In a career spanning fifty-five years, André De Shields, at age 78, has distinguished himself as an unparalleled actor, activist, educator and philanthropist. As Actor Mr. De Shields’ mission is to fill intimate spaces with enormous beauty. He defines intimate spaces as the hearts of humanity. As Activist he endeavors to restore majesty, elegance and literacy to the Black Thespian toolbox. His legendary career has resulted in a treasure trove of accolades, among them Doctor of Fine Arts honoris causa from his Alma Mater, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he has founded THE ANDRÉ DE SHIELDS FUND. His other marks of esteem include having been the triple crown winner of the 2019 awards season, garnering Tony, Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk and Grammy Awards for his universally acclaimed role as Hermes, messenger to the gods, in Hadestown. Mr. De Shields transitioned from 2022 into 2023 with a paranormal portrayal as Ben Loman in the searing production of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, starring Wendell “The Lion” Pierce. In 2024, he starred as Old Deuteronomy in the critically-acclaimed and radical reimagining of CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL at Perelman Performing Arts Center. Perennially known for his idiosyncratic, show-stopping performances in four legendary Broadway productions—The Wiz, Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Emmy Award), Play On! and The Full Monty—Mr. De Shields has achieved the status of “Broadway Deity.” www.andredeshields.com.
Auction
Our 2025 Gala Auction is now live! Bidding will promptly conclude at 8:00 PM on June 1, 2025.
